The Guardian (And Evening Star, with Which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) MONDAY, MAY 17, 1937. IMPORTANT MATTERS.

Hokitika Guardian, 17 May 1937, Page 4

The Guardian (And Evening Star, with Which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) MONDAY, MAY 17, 1937. IMPORTANT MATTERS.

With the close of Coronation week, although many important festivals are to take place according to the programme prepared, other important matters of state interest will be coming to the front also. Foreign affairs will be in the forefront, and the deliberations at the Imperial Conference will be much occupied therewith. In the past week much has been heard of unity and the close alliance of all parts with the Empire. There are engrossing problems in the air touching almost all parts, so that perforce the Empire must stand united. The situation in Spain and the grouch the Italian press is endeavouring to fan into a flame, are .matters for immediate consideration. The unrest in Palestine and India is far from allayed, and requires the moral support of all parts to indicate Britain’s determination in the matter. Involved with these issues is the question of defence, and the vigorous policy being pursued. The laying bare of all situations will give the oversea delegates the full reason lor the dramatic change of policy m the matter of rearming. It is possible the policy will be extended definitely overseas, and it is hinted already that the Federal elections due this year in Australia will be’fought by Mr Lyons on the patriotic policy he will take back to the Commonwealth. That prophecy in the light of world events, is somewhat significant, especially considering the conciliatory attitude of Japan towards Britain at present, and the peaceful expressions of regard for the King’s reign from Herr Hitler. Mention of Germany recalls tho question of the mandated territories, and the need for some satisfactory solution. The Premiers present, control much of the country so much desired by Germany, and a clear statement of the facts in regard to each possession would have a clarifying effect at least for the time being, though something tangible must need to be done in the way of access for essential products which may be needed. These various matters cover a wide range of controversial aspects of foreign affairs, and as representatives of some of the continental and other nations are present in England, the opportunity is not likely to be lost for a frank exchange of views. The occasion of the Coronation, therefore, serves a valuable international purpose in bringing so many leaders of thought and action in world capitals together. When these subjects have been disposed of to the best advantage, the question of trade and intercourse within the Empire will engross attention. New Zealand has been very frank through its Ministers about the desire for a larger volume of trade with the Motherland to ensure the reception of oversea colonists in this country. This is necessary and most desirable if some satisfactory arrangements can be made. The difficulty about employment for those without capital is at once apparent,, for the large army of unemployed is still formidable despite the larger expenditure going on. Population is one of the problems of Empire causing concern, and each country must strive to matte some contribution towards meeting the position. With the help of greater trade overseas New Zealand is almost committed to do something, and it is not too much to expect when Ministers return some modified form of immigration will be put forward in the Government policy.